Skilled Trades Worker Shortage Looms Across the U.S. in 2025
Construction Demand Is Outpacing the Workforce
The U.S. construction industry is facing a historic skilled labor shortage and needs to recruit 439,000 new workers in 2025, according to the Associated Builders and Contractors. This figure is expected to climb to even higher in the coming years due to worker retirements, continued growth in housing and infrastructure, and a lack of skilled labor entering the workforce. For anyone considering a career change, today’s shortage represents one of the best skilled trades job opportunities in decades.
Skilled trade labor shortages are affecting nearly every trade with HVAC jobs, plumber jobs, electrician jobs and other skilled trade jobs all in high demand. This historic skilled labor shortage is resulting in project delays, increased costs, and missed growth opportunities for contractors.
States Respond with Apprenticeships and Training
States like Michigan are responding aggressively. With more than 40,000 skilled trades openings expected per year, Michigan has committed $1.9 million toward expanding apprenticeship programs. These training programs allow apprentices to earn while they learn a trade. In Michigan, apprenticeship training has led to apprentices earning a median salary of $80,700 after completing their apprenticeship program. Colorado is another state that is investing in businesses to help expand registered apprenticeship programs throughout the state. The Colorado Workforce Development Council awards grants to small businesses to help create and support apprenticeship programs. Other states are following suit, with funding boosts and public-private partnerships aiming to attract and train new workers through fast-track programs.
Companies respond with investments for technical and community colleges
Major companies are stepping up too, recognizing that solving the skilled trades labor shortage is essential for their long term growth.
Lowe’s announced an ambitious plan to invest $50 million from 2023-2028 to help address the shortage of skilled trades workers in America. The Lowe’s fountain provides Gable Grants to community and technical schools to help in the recruitment and training of new skilled trades workers. As of July 18, 2025 there were 60 organizations that are Gable Grant recipients. These grants are a part of a 5 year goal to help train 50,000 skilled trade workers across America.
Stanley Black and Decker has a program to help train skilled trades workers called “DEWALT Grow the Trades”. In 2025, they doubled their original goal and are now investing $60 million in programs to help train skilled trade workers. This program provides grants and tools for public schools and trade schools to help train skilled trades workers over the next 5 years.
Key Takeaways
- The U.S. needs 439,000 new skilled trades workers in 2025
- States are boosting apprenticeships and training programs
- Companies like Lowe’s and Stanley Black & Decker are investing millions
- Skilled trades careers offer high pay, job security, and growth without a 4-year degree
How GoSkilledTrades.com ( a Skilled Trades Career Hub) Helps You Get Started
If you’re looking to get into the skilled trades, GoSkilledTrades.com is built to help guide you:
✅ Apprenticeship Info: Our Apprenticeships Guide explains how to find, apply, and succeed in registered apprenticeship programs.
✅ Explore Career Paths: Our List of Skilled Trade Jobs gives you an overview of high-demand careers, from electricians to boilermakers.
✅ Salary and Career Guides: Explore our career resources and discover how to get started in the trades and the factors that can influence how much you can make in the different skilled trade jobs.
✅ Skilled Trades Job Board: Check out our Skilled Trade Jobs Board to find openings near you.
Why It Matters
Massive Opportunity: Skilled trade jobs aren’t just another job, they’re interesting, rewarding and challenging careers with room to grow.
Better Pay: The shortage of skilled trades workers is pushing wages up. Today, skilled tradesmen are in a strong negotiating position.
Accessible Entry Points: You don’t need an expensive 4-year degree. Many workers begin their career in an apprenticeship, working on the job or in a trade school.
Today’s a great time to Go Skilled Trades and begin a new rewarding career
Ready to build your future in the trades? Explore our list of skilled trade jobs in demand today, browse skilled trade jobs near you, and take the first step toward an interesting, rewarding, and debt-free career today. Visit our website GoSkilledTrades.com to explore skilled trade careers and job openings in the trades. Today is a great time to get started and Go Skilled Trades!
